Nine Dash Line 

The Nine Dash line encircles Beijing’s claimed waters and islands in the South China Sea. 

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Key Highlights 

• In 1947, China declared this line in the South China Sea.  
• It is a 'U' shape line etched on a map in the 1940s by a Chinese geographer.  
• South China sea is located between southern China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia.
• China’s claim over almost the entire South China Sea through the nine-dash line has been at the source of conflict with other island nations in the region. 

 

Importance of South China Sea 

• Strategic Importance: Important waterways in the world 
• Important maritime gateway and junction for shipping between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. 
• Natural Resources 
• Fishing Grounds 
• Important Trade Route